Macular degeneration : Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Medicines
Macular degeneration | Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Macular degeneration is an eye condition that affects the macula, causing vision loss. There are two types: dry and wet. Dry macular degeneration involves the breakdown of macular cells over time, while wet macular degeneration involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. Dry macular degeneration progresses slowly and can cause blurred vision, while wet macular degeneration can lead to rapid and severe vision loss. While there is no cure, treatments can help slow down the progression and preserve vision. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing macular degeneration effectively.
What causes macular degeneration?
The exact cause of macular degeneration is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Age, genetics, smoking, high blood pressure, sun exposure, obesity, an unhealthy diet, cardiovascular disease, and family history are some of the factors that may increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. However, having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop the condition.
What deficiency causes macular degeneration?
There is no specific nutrient deficiency that directly causes macular degeneration. However, a diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help reduce the risk of developing the condition or slow down its progression. It is important to note that a healthy diet is not a substitute for medical treatment and people with macular degeneration should consult their healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.
What are the types of macular degeneration?
Dry Macular degeneration:
Dry macular degeneration: This is the more common type, accounting for about 90% of cases. It is caused by the breakdown of cells in the macula over time. Small, yellowish deposits called drusen may develop in the macula, and this can cause the macula to thin and dry out, leading to a loss of central vision. Dry macular degeneration progresses slowly and may not cause significant vision loss in the early stages.
Wet Macular degeneration:
Wet macular degeneration: This is less common, but it is more severe than dry macular degeneration. It is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula, which can leak blood and fluid and cause significant damage to the macula. Wet macular degeneration can cause rapid and severe vision loss and requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage.
What are the stages of macular degeneration?
Macular degeneration is classified into three stages: early, intermediate, and advanced. The staging is based on the extent of the damage to the macula and the presence of abnormal blood vessels. An eye doctor can determine the stage of macular degeneration based on a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated eye exam and imaging tests.
Early stage: In the early stage of macular degeneration, there may be no noticeable symptoms, and vision loss may not be present. However, small yellow deposits called drusen may be present in the macula.
Intermediate stage: In the intermediate stage, drusen may be larger, and there may be changes in the pigment of the retina. Vision loss may become noticeable, particularly in low light conditions.
Advanced stage: In the advanced stage, there may be significant vision loss due to damage to the macula, which can cause blind spots or a central blur. There are two types of advanced macular degeneration:
What are the symptoms of macular degeneration?
The symptoms of macular degeneration can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. In the early stages, there may be no noticeable symptoms.
- Blurred or distorted vision, especially in the central area of the visual field
- Difficulty seeing fine details or reading small print
- Trouble seeing in low light or at night
- Needing brighter light to see clearly
- Decreased contrast sensitivity
- Changes in color perception
- Blind spots or dark areas in the central area of the visual field
- Straight lines appearing wavy or crooked
How do you treat macular degeneration?
The treatment options for macular degeneration depend on the type and severity of the condition. There is no cure for macular degeneration, but treatments can help slow down the progression of the disease and preserve remaining vision. Some of the treatment options include:
Anti-VEGF injections: This is the most common treatment for wet macular degeneration. Anti-VEGF drugs are injected into the eye to block the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula.
Photodynamic therapy: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment option for certain types of macular degeneration, specifically for the wet form of the condition. It involves injecting a light-sensitive drug called verteporfin into a vein in the arm, which then accumulates in the abnormal blood vessels under the macula. A low-power laser is then applied to the macula, which activates the drug and causes the abnormal blood vessels to close.
Laser surgery: In some cases, laser surgery may be used to destroy abnormal blood vessels in the macula.
Nutritional supplements: Studies have shown that certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help slow down the progression of macular degeneration.
Low vision aids: These are devices that can help people with macular degeneration make the most of their remaining vision, such as magnifying glasses, telescopes, and specialized computer software.
macular degeneration - Medicines
There are different types of medications that may be used to treat macular degeneration, depending on the type and severity of the condition. Here are some of the medications used for macular degeneration:
Anti-VEGF drugs: These are the most commonly used medications for wet macular degeneration. Anti-VEGF drugs, such as bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept, work by blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula, reducing the amount of fluid and bleeding in the retina.
Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory drugs that can be used to reduce inflammation in the retina and slow down the progression of macular degeneration. Corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone and dexamethasone, can be injected into the eye or administered as an implant.
Nutritional supplements: Studies have shown that certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help slow down the progression of macular degeneration.
